Relationship between diffuse esophageal spasm and lower esophageal sphincter dysfunction on barium studies and...

We sought to reassess the function and clinical characteristics of the lower esophageal sphincter in a series of patients with radiographically defined diffuse esophageal spasm.

In reviewing records in the radiology database at our hospital, we identified 14 patients with diffuse esophageal spasm confirmed on barium studies who also underwent esophageal manometry. The radiographic findings were reviewed and correlated with the manometric findings. Medical records were also reviewed to determine the clinical presentation, treatment, and patient course.

All 14 patients were symptomatic, presenting with dysphagia, chest pain, or both. All the barium studies revealed intermittently absent or weakened peristalsis, with nonperistaltic contractions that were moderate in six patients (43%) and marked in eight patients (57%) (contractions nearly obliterating the lumen in six and completely obliterating the lumen in two). Nine patients (64%) had impaired opening of the lower esophageal sphincter, manifested by beaklike narrowing of the distal esophagus, and five (36%) had normal opening of the lower esophageal sphincter. Manometry revealed abnormal peristalsis in all 14 patients, with repetitive simultaneous contractions in eight (57%) and lower esophageal sphincter dysfunction in 12 (86%). All eight patients with lower esophageal sphincter dysfunction or incomplete relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter on barium studies or manometry who were treated with the Clostridium botulinum toxin or endoscopic balloon dilatation had a positive response.

Our preliminary data show that diffuse esophageal spasm is characterized on barium studies by frequent lower esophageal sphincter dysfunction rather than a classic corkscrew appearance. Barium and manometric studies may have complementary roles in the evaluation of patients with diffuse esophageal spasm.